Report Public Assistance Fraud

In order to report fraud please call the investigation department of Lucas County Job & Family Services at 419-213-8701, or call the state at 614-728-7741.

What Happens If An Individual Is Found To Be Guilty Of (Cash) Public Assistance Fraud?

The individual and the entire household will not be allowed to receive cash again until the claim (over payment is paid in full) if he or she has been in receipt of OWF (cash) and it has been determined to be an Intentional Program Violation (IPV)

Prosecution, made to make restitution as well as subject to court fines, and/or incarceration

What Happens If An Individual Is Found To Be Guilty Of Food Stamp Public Assistance Fraud?

Food stamp disqualifications are applied to the individual only and the offense applied is dependent on the disqualification in effect at the time of the offense:

The first violation is 12 months disqualification

The second violation is 24 months of disqualification

The third violation is permanent disqualification

What Happens If An Individual Is Out Of State Receiving Food Stamps?

The individual would be subject to a 10 year disqualification for stating or misrepresenting his/her identity or place of residence.

Public Assistance Fraud

In the accordance with section 5101.83 of the Revised Code “fraudulent assistance” means the assistance and services, including cash assistance provided under the OWF program established under Chapter 5107. of the Revised Code, or the Prevention Retention and Contingency (PRC) program established under Chapter 5108. of the Revised Code, to or on behalf of an assistance group that is provided as a result of fraud by a member of the assistance group, including an intentional violation of the program’s requirements.

If an individual is found giving misleading information or falsifying a statement, or misrepresentation, concealment, or withholding of facts; or any act intended to mislead, misrepresent, conceal, or withhold facts or propound a falsity when applying for cash assistance through the Lucas County Department of Job and Family Services is considered to be an Intentional Program Violation (IPV).